Daiganji Temple

The grounds of Daiganji Temple extend from the Pagoda Hill on the east side to the Tahoto Pagoda and Kyo no O on the west side, and are known as Itsukushima Garan, where many buildings and towers were built. The current main hall was the old monks' quarters, and Senjokaku, the large sutra hall, was planned to become the main hall. In the past, worshippers would pass through the large torii gate, land on the sandy beach near Daiganji Temple, cleanse themselves in the large bath behind Daiganji Temple, rest in the monks' quarters, change clothes, and then visit Itsukushima Shrine. The exit of Itsukushima Shrine is built in a karahafu style, suggesting that it was once the entrance. In addition, the Itsukushima Dragon God, who is said to be the messenger of Benzaiten, is enshrined in the pond on the grounds. Daiganji Temple's principal image, Itsukushima Benzaiten, is one of the three great Benzaiten in Japan, along with Enoshima in Sagami Province (Kamakura) and Chikubushima in Omi Province (Lake Biwa). The Itsukushima Benzaiten Grand Festival is held every year on June 17th. The shrine is opened to the public once a year during this festival. Until the Shinto-Buddhist separation order, the shrine was enshrined in the main hall of Itsukushima Shrine, so it seems that the public did not have a chance to view it.